The F/A-18I Hornet ADV is a COFFIN-equipped development of the F/A-18E Super Hornet developed by General Resource Limited. It is not a frontline craft of the GRDF and is mostly used as a reserve unit. However, its UPEO variant, the F/A-18U, is in regular use with UPEO's aviation corps.
Description
The F/A-18I Hornet ADV is the latest variant of the Hornet family, developed by General Resource prior to 2040. It is not a remarkable aircraft by 2040 standards, but continues to be reputed for its maintenance record and adaptability to any combat role.
Significant improvements over the F/A-18E include improved stealth performance and fuel capacity[1], to better enhance the type's already excellent survivability in the COFFIN-dominated battlefield. The frame is constructed out of new, more durable material, and incorporates the typical opaque COFFIN-enabled cockpit seen in planes of the time.
The design is a combination of the original Hornet's wing leading edge root extensions and fuselage and the F/A-18E's vertical stabilizers, stabilators and square-shaped air intakes, with wing trailing edges redesigned to be slightly more conducive to stealth (despite still having wingtip missile rails).
Its specifications are as follows:[1]
- Length: 18.31 m (60.1 ft)
- Width: 13.62 m (44.7 ft)
- Height: 4.88 m (16.0 ft)
- Weight: 29,937 kg (66,000 lb)
- Top speed:
- Japanese version: 2,324 km/h (Mach 1.9; 1,444 mph; 1,255 kn)
- International version: 3,153 km/h (Mach 2.6; 1,959 mph; 1,702 kn)
- Armor: Light
History
This aircraft did not make many appearances in the Intercorporate War, primarily being a second-line aircraft. It was primarily sold as the F/A-18U Hornet ADV to UPEO. It was only ever seen used by General Resource in one situation, wherein Rena Hirose and Nemo intercepted A/F-117X NAV Hawk spy planes over Expo City. A squadron of Hornet ADVs were sent in as backup for the spy planes, wherein they were all shot down.[2]
The UPEO model, exactly the same as the original, was uncommonly deployed on the frontlines early in the Intercorporate War. However, like many early-stage UPEO craft, it would be retired as the war escalated and more advanced technology was required to deal with the coming threats. Notably, Erich Jager and Fiona Chris Fitzgerald flew this plane.[3][4][5]
Game Analysis
Ace Combat 3: Electrosphere
- "General Resource's standardized multirole aircraft, an improved F-18E Super Hornet with new technology and materials. Its stats are not too impressive, but overall, it is well balanced for both anti-air and anti-ground attacks. As a result, it is a very easy plane to operate. Its performance is similar to UPEO's multirole EF-2000 but the Hornet ADV has better defense and stability."
- ― Ace Combat 3: Electrosphere - Namco Official Guide Book
How to Unlock
- Japanese version:
- International version: This aircraft is not available to the player.
Statistics[1]
- Power: 4
- Attack: 5
- Defense: 8
- Stability: 8
- Mobility: 6
Weapons
Colors
- GRDF: Light blue with gray underside
- UPEO: Ghost white and gray
Named Aces
- Erich Jager
- Fiona Chris Fitzgerald
Gallery
A flight of GRDF F/A-18I's on their way to attack UPEO facilities
A GRDF F/A-18I flying over a radar installation.
Side view of a GRDF F/A-18I.
Rear view of a GRDF F/A-18I.
References
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